For purposes of this section, a thru-hike is defined as hiking the contiguous 230-mile backbone of the Ozark Trail in one trip.
A thru-hike can begin at the Onondaga State Park and proceed southward and to the Eleven Point Western trailhead, or move in the
opposite direction from south to north. The Ozark Trail Association online Trip Planner contains information on a thru-hike,
including directions to Onondaga State Park and Eleven Point Western trailheads:

The Trip Planner Details pages may be printed out and used as a databook.

How can I discuss the OT with other trail users when planning a thru-hike?

The OTA forum is a good way to discuss the trail with other users, and to inquire about particular aspects of the trail.
There is a specific discussion for hikers along with other topics and uses. See our forum.

How can I find descriptions and other information about Ozark Trail sections?

Visit our trail page for an overview of the sections and follow the link to a particular section for more details.

The Ozark Trail Guidebook, independently published, is also available for purchase and provides section-by-section descriptions.

How can I hear "Tales from the Trail" and learn the stories of other thru-hikers?

Try the following links for some real-life experiences distance hiking the OT:

Detailed maps, including topographical maps, may be viewed, downloaded and printed from our maps page.
An interactive online map of the trail showing trailheads and directions is available here.
Printed Ozark Trail section maps on water and tear-resistant paper can be purchased here. Or contact the OTA (by email or call the office at (573) 436-0540) for availability and pricing.

I use a GPS. Are waypoints available?

GPS data (gpx) is available for free download. Waypoints and gpx files may be accessed from our Trail page, then click on each respective trail section. Google Earth (kml) files for each section are also available..

What do I need to know about water sources on the OT?

Water is generally available along the trail. However, some sources may run dry during extended periods of drought. Plan accordingly and carry or cache water in case you
are not able to find a source close by. Always treat any water for drinking and cooking along the trail. Specific water sources are indicated on Ozark Trail online and printed maps.

How can I learn about current conditions and any important notices about the Ozark Trail?

Current trail conditions including information about obstructions, planned burns and other possible issues may be accessed on our conditions page.

What are my options for resupply and services on an Ozark Trail thru-hike?

While the Ozark Trail doesn't run directly through any towns, hikers may access options for resupply and services along the way, including the locales below.
Please be aware that we make an effort to keep this information current. However, businesses and business conditions change, thus the information contained here
is subject to change without the knowledge of the OTA. To be certain of availability, contact the resource provider directly to verify current hours and services.

Public Library
(from Wood's) ~.5 miles NW on Highway 32, left on Highway A to Main Street (first intersection); library is on right.Phone: 573-689-2718Hours: M-F: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm; Closed at lunchtime

There are many points along the trail to cache a resupply. The locations below represent some of the more accessible trailheads along the way. Be sure to cache your food away
from the trailhead itself and protect from critters out to get your food.

For a complete listing of trailheads, including directions, go to our directions page.

There are various campgrounds on or near the trail. While the campgrounds may be open year-round for camping, many of them have services
that are only available seasonally. Additionally, there may be a fee for camping when the campground is open. Below is a list of the campgrounds along the trail.

Huzzah Conservation Area CampgroundHours: Primitive camping allowed September 15th through May 15th. Day use only through the remainder of the year.
Vault Toilet. No potable water or trash service.website

Sutton Bluff Campground
On trailPhone: 573-364-4621Hours: Open late March - first week in November
Fee charged. Water and trash service. Flush toilets and showers available.website

143 / 87.5

Powder Mill Campground
~.1 mile S to trailhead, then ~.5 miles SE on road to campgroundPhone: 573-323-4236Hours: Full services, including water, trash service and flush toilets available between April 15-Oct 15. Fee charged. Free camping off season.website

156.5 / 74

Peck Ranch Campground
~1.25 miles S on service road, continue S past OT Trailhead to campgroundsPhone: 417-256-7161Hours: Open year-round
No fee campground. Closed from time to time for managed hunts and wildlife restoration. Vault toilets, picnic tables, trash service. No potable water, but Rogers Creek usually holds water.website

211 / 19.5

Greer Crossing Recreation Area
On trail.Phone: 573-364-4621Hours: Open year-round
Fee charged. Vault toilets, picnic tables, water and trash service available May 1 - Oct 22. Water from Eleven Point River when potable water not available.website

213.9 / 16.6

McCormack Lake
~1 mile N on spur trailPhone: 573-364-4621Hours: Open year-round
No fee campground. Vault toilet. No potable water or trash service. Water from McCormack Lake.website

What other thru-hike type trips on the Ozark Trail do you recommend?

Some hikers prefer to use the Hwy 21 Trailhead on the Taum Sauk section as a beginning / ending point:

I just thru-hiked the Ozark Trail and would love to share my story. What now?

We would love to hear your story or suggestions that we can put on this page to make it better. Post your trip on our forum,
send us a trip report, or contact Kathy Atnip,
Communications committee. And maybe we can use your story in a newsletter or our magazine.